Benign Prostatic Hypertrophy or BPH
What is BPH and what are the symptoms?
BPH is enlargement of the prostate gland that is very common in men over
age 50. It may restrict the flow of urine by squeezing the urethra.
The symptoms result from this urine flow restriction and include:
- A decrease in strength of the urine stream
- Difficulty starting urine flow
- Frequent need to urinate, even needing to get up in the night
- Difficulty stopping urine flow, dribbling on
How is BPH diagnosed?
The most reliable test for BPH is the DRE or Digital Rectal Exam.
This is when the doctor uses a gloved finger to feel the size and shape of
the prostate. This exam should be done every year after age 40.
Is BPH just early prostate cancer?
No. These are two very different conditions. However you may
actually have both at the same time.
Will BPH stop me from having sex?
No. BPH generally has no effect on ability so have or enjoy sex.
When and how is BPH treated?
The simple answer is that BPH should be treated when it bothers you
enough. Only you can define when that is. The
AUA scale is one way
to measure how much the symptoms bother you. The treatment for BPH is
most often medication but in severe instances may be surgery. The
doctors at ARFP can help you with medical treatment and referral to a
Urologist for surgery if needed. The medications may be designed to
actually shrink the size of the gland, such as Proscar or Avodart.
Or they may work to relax the muscles in the prostate like Flomax.
If you think you may be having any problem with your prostate, call
227-6363 for an
appointment.